How much does a hard inquiry affect your credit score?

A hard inquiry typically lowers your credit score by fewer than 5 points, and the effect usually fades within a few months. Importantly, multiple mortgage or auto-loan inquiries within a short shopping window (often 14–45 days) are generally counted as a single inquiry, so rate-shopping doesn't pile up damage.

Short answer: A single hard inquiry usually lowers a score by fewer than five points, and mortgage rate-shopping inquiries in a short window are generally grouped. The bigger risk is unnecessary new credit before underwriting or closing. If an inquiry is unauthorized or the score gap is tight, start with a Credit Diagnosis before applying again.

When inquiries matter more

One inquiry is minor; many in a short time for different types of credit can signal risk and add up. Inquiries stay on your report for two years but only affect your score for about one. Right before a mortgage, avoid unnecessary new applications.

Hard vs soft

Only hard inquiries (from applying for credit) affect your score. Soft inquiries (checking your own credit, pre-approvals) don't. If you see a hard inquiry you didn't authorize, it's disputable — and can be a sign of fraud worth investigating.

FAQ

How many points does a hard inquiry take off?

Usually fewer than 5 points, and the impact typically fades within a few months. The exact effect depends on your overall profile.

Does rate shopping hurt my credit?

Generally no - multiple mortgage or auto inquiries within a short window (often 14-45 days) are counted as one, so shopping for the best rate is safe.

How long do hard inquiries stay on your report?

They remain for two years but only affect your score for about one year.

What's the difference between a hard and soft inquiry?

Hard inquiries come from applying for credit and can lower your score slightly; soft inquiries (checking your own credit, pre-approvals) don't affect it.